Creamy Avocado Spread

With all the gardening I've been doing and my spring allergies in full swing, I've been one very tired girl lately.  This past weekend, my dad and I did our big planting of over 100 tomato and 50 pepper plants.  It also happened to be over 80 F for the first time this year while we were out in the garden all day.  It's a labor of love, and I wouldn't have it any other way.  I will say it is important to plan meals and have snacks prepared for those days when you need something fast that is nutritious and delicious.  This avocado spread works as a salad dressing, sandwich condiment, or sauce for main dishes, and comes together in a snap.  Needless to say, I ate quite a few avocados this weekend thanks to this spread.

This scoop of heaven is made up of creamy avocados, tangy goat cheese, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice and cilantro.  It's basically guacamole in a super smooth form with the genius addition of goat cheese.  It's a little bit of heaven with each bite, and certainty will have friends and family asking what your secret is.  I've been eating this in salads for lunch and on grilled goodies for dinner.  I have to say, one of the best ways I've had this was with sweet potato fries.  Unlike most avocado dips and spreads, this recipe keeps well in the fridge and doesn't turn brown overnight so you can make a big batch and use it throughout the week.  Answer your avocado craving with this versatile spread!

Creamy Avocado Spread

2 ripe avocados
4 oz goat cheese, soft
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Directions:
1.  Blend the garlic and lemon juice in the base of a food processor for 5-10 seconds.  Add the avocado and oil and blend another 5-10 seconds.  Add the salt, pepper, and goat cheese, blending until smooth. Add the cilantro last and pulse until incorporated.  Serve cold.